On-hand attachment band

ABSTRACT

An on-hand attachment band positions a computing device, smart watch, or conventional watch on a position in the hand to provide a preferable viewing angle. The on-hand attachment band positions a device on the top of the hand proximate the thumb. The attachment band has a loop to which a device can attach, and one or more straps to attach the attachment band to a wearer.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser.No. 29/535,463, filed Aug. 6, 2015. Any and all applications for which aforeign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application DataSheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated byreference under 37 CFR 1.57.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field

This application relates to a wearable accessory for a positioning adevice on the hand.

Description of the Related Art

Devices, such as computing devices, are increasingly worn as anaccessory, such as a watch. These devices are frequently worn on thewrist. However, when performing an activity, such as exercise, running,climbing, skiing, etc., or when relaxing, a watch is not usually withinan easy sight line. Because of this, a computing device worn on thewrist may be unsuitable during a variety of activities.

The present disclosure describes embodiments of attachment bands whichenable a device, such as a computing device, to be worn in a locationwith a preferable viewing angle compared to a wrist-mounted watch.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, an attachment band comprises a loop having a firstportion and a second portion; a connection feature removably attached toa portion of the loop, the connection feature configured to attach to acomputing device; a first strap removably attached to the loop at apoint between the first portion and the second portion of the loop; anda second strap removably attached to the loop at a point proximate thesecond portion of the loop.

In some embodiments, the first and second straps comprise engagementfeatures for releasably securing the first strap to the second strap.

In some embodiments, the first portion of the loop is configured toreceive a finger or thumb of a wearer.

In some embodiments, the attachment band is configured to position thecomputing device on a top portion of the hand near the wearer's thumb.

In some embodiments, the connection feature comprises a hook sized toreceive and releasably retain the loop.

In some embodiments, the connection feature comprises an extendingportion having a hole formed therein, the hole configured to receive andretain the loop.

In some embodiments, the loop is made of an elastic material.

In some embodiments, the connection feature comprises a sleeveconfigured to receive and retain the computing device.

In some aspects described herein, a system for attaching a computingdevice to a wearers hand comprises a loop having a first portion and asecond portion; a computing device disposed within a perimeter of theloop; a connection feature attached to the computing device and to theloop; a first strap attached to the loop proximate the connectionfeature; a second strap attached to the loop proximate the secondportion of the loop; and wherein the first strap and the second strapcomprise securement features configured to releasably secure the firststrap to the second strap.

In some embodiments, the computing device comprises a top edge and abottom edge, and wherein the connection feature attaches to at least oneof the top edge and the bottom edge.

In some embodiments, the system comprises a first connection feature anda second connection feature, the first connection feature attached tothe computing device at the top edge and the second connection featureattached to the computing device at the bottom edge.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises a first hole boundedby a portion of the computing device and the first portion of the loopand a and the computing device; and a second hole bounded by anotherportion of the computing device and the second portion of the loop.

In some embodiments, the first hole is configured to receive a wearer'sthumb.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of an on-hand attachment band forpositioning a computing device on the top of the hand near the thumb.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an the on-hand attachment band of FIG.1.

FIG. 3 is a top view of the on-hand attachment band of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the on-hand attachment band of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a front view of the on-hand attachment band of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the on-hand attachment band of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a right side view of the on-hand attachment band of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a left side view of the on-hand attachment band of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an on-hand attachmentband.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Some embodiments described herein relate to an on-hand attachment bandas a device to position a computing device, or other device, on the topor back of the hand, near the thumb. Positioning a computing device inthe general location of the hand depicted in FIG. 1 allows a wearer theability to see the display of the computing device without rotating theforearm or wrist. The attachment band described herein provides for animproved viewing angle for a computing device. For example, a computingdevice positioned on the hand with the on-hand attachment band caneasily be seen by a runner while running, without the need to move thearm or the hand to see the display. Similarly, the on-hand attachmentband can position a computing device on a hand over a glove or aprotective device, so a user can see the computing device whileperforming an activity which requires gloves or similar equipment. Askier, for example, may have a coat and gloves on, which makes seeing acomputing device positioned in the traditional location on the wristdifficult without distracting the user's attention or requiring theskier to move a coat sleeve and/or a glove. Using the on hand attachmentband, the computing device can be worn in a preferred location on thehand, as shown in FIG. 1, while engaged in many different activities,without distraction or the need to move clothing.

FIG. 1 depicts a computing device attached to an on-hand attachment bandat a preferable location on the top of the hand near the thumb. Theattachment band 100 connects to a computing device 200 via one or moreconnection features 110. The computing device 200 can be a computingdevice, such as a smart watch, wearable computer, and the like. Thecomputing device can have a touch screen interface, control buttons,knobs, or switches to receive user input, and a display screen todisplay information to a user. In some embodiments, attachment band neednot necessarily attach to a computing device, but can also attach to awatch, stopwatch, or other timepiece.

The connection features 110 can be configured to connect to variousavailable computing devices, and can be customized for a particularcomputing device. In some embodiments, the connection features 110 canbe generic and capable of attaching to one or more types of computingdevices.

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the attachment band 100. Theattachment band 100 comprises a loop 120, a first strap 130, and asecond strap 140. The loop 120 comprises a first portion 126 and asecond portion 128. The loop 120 is a generally oval shape, althoughother shapes can be used without departing from the scope of the presentdisclosure. The loop 120 may not have a uniform cross section along theentire length. For example, the second portion 128 of the loop 120 mayhave a generally circular cross section, and the first portion 126 ofthe loop 120 may have an elongate cross section, oval cross-section,rectangular cross-section, or other cross-section that is different fromthe cross section of the loop 120 at the second portion 128. Thecross-section of the loop 120 may vary gradually along a length of theloop 120 from the second portion 128 to the first portion 126. In someembodiments, the elongate cross-section can be a cross-section having awidth and a height of different lengths. In some embodiments, the loop120 cross-section can vary along the length among a variety ofcross-sections, as desired.

In some embodiments, the loop 120 is a single, integrally formed piece.In some embodiments, the loop 120 may be formed of one or moreindividual pieces which are glued, soldered, fastened, or otherwiseconnected to form a continuous loop. In some embodiments, the loop 120may comprise additional sub-loops (not shown) which extportion from aportion of the loop 120, and which may be configured to receive an indexfinger, a ring finger, a middle finger, or a little finger.

In some embodiments, the loop 120 can have a constant cross section. Insome embodiments, the loop 120 may have other cross sections as desired.For example, the cross section of the loop 120 may be square,triangular, rectangular, star shaped, oval, or an irregularcross-sectional shape. The loop 120 can be formed from a resilientmaterial, such as rubber, elastic polymer, or other suitable materialwhich allows for the loop 120 to stretch and contract as needed tofacilitate a wearer putting the attachment band 100 on the hand. Theconnection features 110, the first strap 130 and the second strap 140are attached to the loop 120. In some embodiments, the loop 120 is madefrom a non-elastic or non-resilient material, and does not allowsignificant stretching and contracting. For example, in someembodiments, the loop 120 may be plastic, leather, a composite, or anyother desired material.

In some embodiments, the connection features 110, the first strap 130and the second strap 140 are removably attached to the loop 120 by astrap connector 150. As shown, the connection features 110 are attachedto a top edge 210 and a bottom edge 220 of the computing device 200. Theconnection features 110 depicted include one or more extending portions115 having a throughhole formed therein configured to receive the loop120. In some embodiments, the one or more extending portions 115 can bea hook or other similar feature to receive and retain a portion of theloop 120. In some embodiments, the connection feature 110 is integrallyformed with the computing device 200. In some embodiments, theconnection feature 110 is separate from the computing device 200, andcan attach to the computing device 200. In some embodiments, theconnection feature 110 can be part of a sleeve that receives and retainsthe computing device 200. In embodiments where the connection features110 are part of a sleeve, the connection features 110 and sleeve may beintegrally formed or fixedly attached to the loop 120.

The connection features 110 connect to the loop 120 at a position withina perimeter of the loop 120. As depicted, the computing device 200 ispositioned within the perimeter of the loop 120 such that two openings122 and 124 are formed between the loop 120 and the computing device200. The first opening 122 can be located between the computing device200 and the loop 120 opposite the second strap 140. The second opening124 can be located between the computing device 200 and the loop 120proximate to the second strap 140. In some embodiments, the connectionfeatures 110 secure the computing device 200 to the loop 120 such thatthe first opening 122 is larger than the second opening 124. In someembodiments, the connection features 110 are slidable along the loop 120between the first portion 126 and the second portion 128, so that thecomputing device 200 can be positioned within the perimeter of the loop120 as desired.

The first opening 122 is sized and configured to receive the thumb of awearer as shown in FIG. 1. The thumb of the wearer extends through thefirst opening 122, and the loop 120 extends around a portion of the baseof the thumb. In some embodiments, the first opening 122 can receive theindex finger, the thumb and the index finger, or another combination offingers and/or thumb.

The first strap 130 and the second strap 140 attach to the loop 120using strap connectors 150. The first strap 130 attaches to the loop 120proximate the connecting features 110. The first strap 130 and thesecond strap 140 may comprise extension portions having holes formedtherein, through which the loop 120 can pass. In some embodiments, thestrap connectors 150 comprise a molded portion having a hole formedtherethrough configured to receive the loop 120. In some embodiments thestrap connectors 150 can comprise or other similar feature configured toreceive and releasably retain the loop 120. The described mechanisms forattaching the first strap 130 and the second strap 140 to the loop 120are exemplary only. Other attachment mechanisms or methods may be usedwithout departing from the scope of this disclosure.

As shown, the first strap 130 connects to the loop 120 at a pointbetween two extending portions 115, near the bottom edge 220 of thecomputing device 200. The first strap 130 can connect near a midpoint ofthe bottom edge 220 of the computing device in order to position thecomputing device 200 on the hand. The first strap 130 extends away fromthe loop 120 in a direction generally perpendicular to length of theportion of the loop 120 to which the first strap 130 is attached.

The second strap 140 connects to a portion of the loop 120 proximate thesecond portion 128. In some embodiments, the second strap 140 is longerthan the first strap 130. In some embodiments, the second strap 140 cancomprise an extension portion 145 connected to the second strap 140,which allows for extension of the second strap 140 to accommodate awearer's hand. When the attachment band 100 is worn, the second strap130 extends along the top of the hand toward an outside portion of thehand or wrist, and wraps around an underside of the wrist, where itmeets the first strap 130. Because the loop 120 is made of an elastic,flexible, or resilient material, the first strap 130 and the secondstrap 140 may be attached to a wearers hand and wrist in a comfortableposition by conforming to the varying size and geometry of differentwearers' hands. The resilience or elasticity of the loop 120 allows forvariations in the angle of the first strap 130 and the second strap 140with regard to the computing device 200. The variability of this anglecan enhance comfort and convenience of the wearer.

As shown in FIG. 4, the first strap 130 comprises an engagement feature135. The engagement feature 135 is configured to secure the first strap130 to the second strap 140. The engagement feature can comprise one ormore engagement tabs 136, which correspond to a plurality of engagementslots 148 on the second strap 140. As the attachment band 100 is securedor put on by a wearer, the engagement tabs 136 are inserted into orpositioned within the engagement slots 148 on the second strap 140. Theengagement slots 148 are disposed perpendicular to the length of thesecond strap 140 and are sized and shaped to receive the engagementslots 148 and to releasably retain the engagement tabs 136. In someembodiments, the engagement feature 135 may be disposed on the secondstrap 140, and the engagement tabs 136 may be inserted intocorresponding engagement tabs 136 located on the first strap 130. Thesefeatures for securing the first strap 130 to the second strap 140 reexemplary only, and other methods to secure the first strap 130 to thesecond strap 140 may be employed without departing from the scope of thepresent disclosure. For example, the first strap 130 and the secondstrap 140 may connect via a known attachment mechanism as are commonwith conventional watch bands, for example, buckles or a hook and loopfastener.

FIGS. 3 and 5-8 depict different views of the exemplary embodiment ofthe on-hand attachment band described herein. FIG. 1 depicts anattachment band 100 configured to be worn on a left hand. A person ofskill in the art would understand how to modify the positions of thefirst strap 130, the second strap 140, and the orientation of thecomputing device 200 in order to configure the attachment band forwearing on a right hand.

FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment of an on-hand attachment band having a hookconnection attaching the first and second straps to the loop. The firstand second straps 130, 140 are releasably connected to the loop 120 viastrap connectors 250. Strap connectors 250 comprise a hook configured toreceive and releasably retain the loop 120.

To put on the attachment band 100, a user or wearer can insert a thumbthrough the first hole 122, and position the computing device 200 on thetop of the hand. The wearer can then secure the first strap 130 to thesecond strap 140, according to a size of the wearers wrist, using theengagement feature 135. Worn in this way, there are three points ofattachment of the loop 120, the first portion 126 of the loop 120attached or partially wrapped around a thumb, the first strap 130, andthe second strap 140. These three connection points secure the loop 120in position, thereby securing the computing device 200 in position onthe top of the hand near the thumb in a position which preferably allowsfor easy viewing of the computing device 200 while the user is walking,running, skiing, climbing, or during many other activities.

What is claimed is:
 1. An attachment band comprising: a loop having afirst portion and a second portion; a connection feature removablyattached to a portion of the loop, the connection feature configured toattach to a computing device; a first strap removably attached to theloop at a point between the first portion and the second portion of theloop; and a second strap removably attached to the loop at a pointproximate the second portion of the loop.
 2. The attachment band ofclaim 1, wherein the first and second straps comprise engagementfeatures for releasably securing the first strap to the second strap. 3.The attachment band of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the loop isconfigured to receive a finger or thumb of a wearer.
 4. The attachmentband of claim 3, wherein the attachment band is configured to positionthe computing device on a top portion of the hand near the wearer'sthumb.
 5. The attachment band of claim 1 wherein the connection featurecomprises a hook sized to receive and releasably retain the loop.
 6. Theattachment band of claim 1, wherein the connection feature comprises anextending portion having a hole formed therein, the hole configured toreceive and retain the loop.
 7. The attachment band of claim 1, whereinthe loop is made of an elastic material.
 8. The attachment band of claim1, wherein the connection feature comprises a sleeve configured toreceive and retain the computing device.
 9. A system for attaching acomputing device to a wearers hand comprising: a loop having a firstportion and a second portion; a computing device disposed within aperimeter of the loop; a connection feature attached to the computingdevice and to the loop; a first strap attached to the loop proximate theconnection feature; a second strap attached to the loop proximate thesecond portion of the loop; and wherein the first strap and the secondstrap comprise securement features configured to releasably secure thefirst strap to the second strap.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein thecomputing device comprises a top edge and a bottom edge, and wherein theconnection feature attaches to at least one of the top edge and thebottom edge.
 11. The system of claim 10, comprising a first connectionfeature and a second connection feature, the first connection featureattached to the computing device at the top edge and the secondconnection feature attached to the computing device at the bottom edge.12. The system of claim 11 further comprising: a first hole bounded by aportion of the computing device and the first portion of the loop and aand the computing device; and a second hole bounded by another portionof the computing device and the second portion of the loop.
 13. Thesystem of claim 12, wherein the first hole is configured to receive awearer's thumb.